Tharanga Lakshitha

Tharanga Lakshitha was an unexpected selection for Sri Lanka's tour of South Africa. A 20-year-old fast bowler who has played just 11 first-class matches, he was chosen after an impressive start to the domestic season, taking 27 wickets at 15.07 for Bloomfield Sports Club Under 23 side. He also performed creditably during a solitary unofficial Test for Sri Lanka A against Pakistan A. Born in the southern fishing town of Matara he has now moved to Colombo where he is being groomed in the BCCSL's Fast Bowling Unit. Has also had a stint in the MRF Academy in Chennai. Is considered a steady, hard-working seamer. (30.11.2002)